Thursday 8th July 2010 - 15:43:41
James Ward has revealed that he is confident that he cam win his rubbers this weekend as Great Britain face Turkey in a deciding Davis Cup tie.
It's tie that great Britain must win if they are to avoid relegation to the Europe/Africa Group III, the lowest tier of Davis Cup, but they are without world number four Andy Murray.
Jamie Baker and James Ward will play n the singles rubbers while Ken Stupski and Colin Fleming will team up for the doubles runner on Saturday.
Speaking to the LTA Ward said: "It's been a really good practice week. It helps coming back to Centre Court where I played three good matches at the AEGON International recently.
"I'm looking forward to a good match on Friday and I'm confident that I can win. I've beaten Ilhan twice and I know he is a good player. The home support will count.
"He passed the qualifying rounds at the three Grand Slams so we know he plays well on the big stage. Jamie and I have to be ready for him. "
Baker is first up against Ergun Zorlu tomorrow before Ward faces Marsel Ilhan in the second match of the day.
The tie is the first with Leon Smith as captain, he took over from John Lloyd after Great Britain Lithuania earlier this year.
He also spoke to the LTA saying: "I've really enjoyed the preparation so far and I am looking forward to the tie. The guys have been excellent, working hard, specifically on their game.
"I have a lot of belief in this group and feel their best years are ahead of them. We don't think about the outcome, we're using this week not just to practice, but to improve.
"We're clear on our strategy. Hopefully it's the start of moving back up. It's all about us as a team. We're all together on this, we're motivated and ready to go."
The tie gents underway tomorrow at Eastbourne.
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